Pillow apparatus

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the invention relate to a customizable pillow apparatus. Typically, the customizable pillow apparatus comprises an outer shell and a support filler assembly contained within the outer shell. The support filler assembly comprises a plurality of support layer components arranged in a first configuration with each support layer component being structured to provide predetermined support characteristics. The support filler assembly is structured to be transformed from a disassembled mode to an assembled mode by rotating a first support layer of the plurality of support layers in a first direction such that the rotated first support layer at least partially overlaps a second support layer to form the first configuration. Moreover, arrangement, ordering, and positioning of the plurality of internal layer components is easily adjustable. The customizable pillow apparatus is configured to be modified into a second configuration from the first configuration to provide targeted support to the user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/052,105 filed on Jul. 15, 2020, the contents of whichare relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to support devices and, more specifically,an adjustable or customizable pillow apparatus. The invention provides apillow apparatus comprising a plurality of layer components, with eachlayer component being structured to provide a predetermined supportparameter. Moreover, arrangement, ordering, and positioning of theplurality of internal layer components is easily adjustable to providetargeted support to a user.

BACKGROUND

A pillow is generally useful for the purpose of rendering comfort orsupport to a user. Conventional pillows are manufactured using fillermaterial such as high resilient (“HR”) urethane foam and are typicallystructured to support the head of a user. However, the supportcharacteristics of the filler material and the pillow, such as firmnessand thickness, are fixed and cannot be modified after the manufacture ofthe pillow. Thus, there is a need for a novel pillow that is structuredto be customized and whose support characteristics such as firmness andthickness can be modified to obtain optimal support for a variety ofbody regions (e.g., head, neck, shoulders, stomach, legs, etc., toobtain requisite alignment of the body, to alleviate pain/stress incertain body portions, and/or to obtain optimal support a variety ofpositions (e.g., sleep positions such as reclining on the user's back,side-sleeping, etc.).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other advantages and features of the invention, andthe manner in which the same are accomplished, will become more readilyapparent upon consideration of the following detail description of theinvention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, whichillustrate preferred and exemplary embodiments and which are notnecessarily drawn to scale, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view 10 of a pillow apparatus 100, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support fillerassembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance withone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic depiction 20B of the support fillerassembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30Cdepicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 ofFIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40Bdepicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 ofFIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting theassembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cut-away sectional view 60 of the supportfiller assembly 200, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 70A-70C ofarrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly200, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 80A-80D ofarrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly200, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allembodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may be embodiedin many different forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fullyconvey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Likenumbers refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view 10 of a pillow apparatus 100, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. The pillow apparatus100 includes an outer shell 110 or cover 110 enclosing a support fillerassembly 200. Here, the outer shell 110 or cover 110 may partially orfully enclose the support filler assembly 200. In some embodiments, thesupport filler assembly 200 comprises a plurality of support layercomponents. The configuration of the support filler assembly 200, theplurality of support layer components, and the assembly process thereof,are described in detail with respect to FIGS. 2A-8D later on. The pillowapparatus 100 can comprise more or fewer components as required forvarious embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 1, the pillow apparatus 100 comprises a first surface111 and a second surface 112. The first surface 111 may be a flatsurface or a three-dimensional contoured surface and the first surface111 may be shaped like a rectangle, a polygon, an ellipse, an oval, acircle, and/or any other suitable curvilinear shape with sharp or curvedcorners. The second surface 112 may be shaped like a rectangle, apolygon or any suitable curvilinear shape. The second surface 112 can bea flat surface or a three-dimensional contoured surface. The pillowapparatus 100 comprises a first lateral side 113, a second lateral side114, a third lateral side 115 and a fourth lateral side 116, each ofwhich extends between and separates the first surface 111 and the secondsurface 112. Each of the edges formed between the first lateral side113, second lateral side 114, third lateral side 115 and fourth lateralside 116 and the adjacent the first surface 111 may be defined by asharp corner, a bevel, a chamfer, a fillet and/or any other suitablecontour between the first surface 111 and the respective lateral side.Similarly, each of the edges formed between the first lateral side 113,second lateral side 114, third lateral side 115 and fourth lateral side116 and the adjacent the second surface 112 may be defined by a sharpcorner, a bevel, a chamfer, a fillet and/or any other suitable contourbetween the second surface 112 and the respective lateral side.

The pillow apparatus 100 typically defines a thickness function “T”, alength function “L” and a width function “W”, which are typicallymeasured in mutually perpendicular directions. In some embodiments, thevalue of thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100 may be definedas the distance between the first surface 111 and the second surface112, e.g., measured on a plane perpendicular to both the first surface111 and the second surface 112. The value of the thickness function T ofthe pillow apparatus may be constant across the length function L andthe width function W, or the value of the thickness function T of thepillow apparatus may vary across the length function L and/or the widthfunction W. In some embodiments, the value of the length function L ofthe pillow apparatus 100 is defined as the distance between a first pairof opposing lateral sides (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposinglateral sides 114 and 116, measured on a plane perpendicular to both thelateral surfaces 114 and 116). The value of the length function L of thepillow apparatus may be constant across the thickness function T and thewidth function W, or the value of the length function L of the pillowapparatus may vary across the thickness function T and/or the widthfunction W. In some embodiments, the value of the width function W ofthe pillow apparatus 100 is defined as the distance between a secondpair of opposing lateral sides (e.g., perpendicular distance betweenopposing lateral sides 113 and 115, measured on a plane perpendicular toboth the lateral surfaces 113 and 115). The value of the width functionW of the pillow apparatus may be constant across the thickness functionT and the length function L, or the value of the width function W of thepillow apparatus may vary across the thickness function T and/or thelength function L. In some embodiments, the first surface 111 and thesecond surface 112 are symmetric, while in other embodiments, the firstsurface 111 and the second surface 112 are asymmetric.

The outer shell 110 or cover 110 preferably, at least substantially orfully, covers the support filler assembly 200, wherein the supportfiller assembly 200 is in contact with the internal surface of the outershell 110 at one or multiple points. The outer shell 110 or cover 110can be constructed using a variety of materials, including synthetic andnatural fabrics and natural/synthetic blends. The outer shell 110 orcover 110 is preferably made from allergy barrier materials comprising,but not limited to, tightly woven barriers, coated barriers to preventmold spores, pollen, dust mites, and other contaminants from enteringthrough the outer shell 100 or cover 110. The gauge measurement of theouter shell 110 or cover 110 (i.e., the number of needles per inch orper 1½ inches in a knitting machine) is preferably large enough toensure a finer knit.

The support filler assembly 200 provides customizable resiliency andsupport to the pillow apparatus 100. The support filler assembly 200, inits assembled form, can have a shape similar to or different from thatof the outer shell 110 or cover 110 and can have similar or differentdimensions. Here, as will be described in greater detail with FIG. 2,typically, the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode,typically comprises shape and dimensions different from the outer shell110 or cover 110, such that the support filler assembly 200 in itsdisassembled mode cannot be enclosed fully by the outer shell 110 orcover 110. Typically, In some embodiments, the support filler assembly200 is structured to allow the pillow apparatus 100 to conform to theuser's shape and is resilient enough to regain its original shape. Thesupport characteristics of the support filler assembly 200, such asfirmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency, may be modified andcustomized based on the user's current needs, based on the desired bodyportion to be supported, the desired alignment, etc. The support fillerassembly 200 can be fabricated as a single part, or multiple parts whichcan be assembled in a variety of ways. In some embodiments the supportfiller assembly 200 comprises two or more parts that can be attached andassembled suitably. In other words, the support filler assembly 200 ofthe present invention is infinitely customizable.

FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support fillerassembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance withone embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a schematicdepiction 20B of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIGS. 2Aand 2B illustrate the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembledmode, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As usedhenceforth, support filler assembly 200′ refers to the support fillerassembly 200 in its disassembled mode. Moreover, support filler assembly200 refers to the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode,unless specified otherwise.

As illustrated by FIGS. 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the supportfiller assembly 200 comprises a plurality of support layer components211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), arranged next to each other (e.g.,adjacent to each other, in an end-to-end manner, etc.). e.g., alongtheir thickness. As such, the support filler assembly 200 may comprise“n” number of support layer components 211, with “n” being any suitablenumber such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, etc. The number of support components “n”may be customized by the user based on the desired supportcharacteristics and comfort. It is noted that in other embodiments, “n”may be 1.

Each of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . .. , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from a varietyof materials based on their individual and also cumulative supportcharacteristics, such as firmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency,and comfort. The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211b, . . . , 211 n) may be made from one or more materials, such as a foammaterial, orthopedic foam, orthopedic memory foam, a loose material suchas fiber or poly beads, polyfiber, reticulated foam, hollowpetrochemical beads, expanded polystyrene beads or any other materialsthat collectively allow the support filler assembly 200 to have desiredthe resilient, conforming and supporting properties. That said, theplurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n)may be constructed using a variety of materials, including but notlimited to, metals, alloys, composites, plastics, natural materials(e.g., wood), other synthetic materials, synthetic and natural fabrics,foams and other materials and/or natural/synthetic blends. In someembodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b,. . . , 211 n) may be made of materials that have a predetermined highpermeability and predetermined high wickability. As used herein,wickability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200and the filter barrier means the ability of the filler material of thesupport filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier to disperse moistureand allow it to pass through to the surface of the fabric, so thatevaporation can take place. In some embodiments the plurality of supportlayer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) comprise performancematerials/fabrics to provide functional qualities like moisturemanagement, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermoregulation and wind andwater resistance.

The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211n) of the support filler assembly 200, may have different durometers.The durometer or hardness used herein may refer to the hardnessdescribed by procedure ASTM 2240 (American Society of Testing andMaterials) using the Shore A scale. The durometer or durometers may varyfrom resilient to compressible. In some embodiments, plurality ofsupport layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of thesupport filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having differentdurometers, plastics having different durometers, etc. For example, thesupport layer component 211 a may be made from a foam having a lowerdurometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211 b may be madefrom a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layercomponent 211 n may be made from a foam having a higherdurometer/hardness. In other words, for example, the support layercomponent 211 a may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness(e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesserdurometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component211 b (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the supportlayer component 211 b may exceed the hardness of the support layercomponent 211 a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 b has1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the supportlayer component 211 a. Continuing with the example, the support layercomponent 211 b may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness(e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesserdurometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component211 n (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the supportlayer component 211 n may exceed the hardness of the support layercomponent 211 b, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 n has1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the supportlayer component 211 b. As a non-limiting example, the support layercomponent 211 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), thesupport layer component 211 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., anorthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 211 n may be athick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a non-limiting example of the plurality ofsupport layer components 211 with “n” being 4, i.e., with four supportlayer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d). That said, it isunderstood that the plurality of support layer components 211 maycomprise more or fewer support layer components 211 in any suitablearrangement. Each of the support layer components may be substantiallyplanar, in some embodiments. That said, the support layer components maycomprise flat surfaces and/or a three-dimensional contoured surfaces.Although, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrates the support layer componentshaving a quadrilateral or rectangular shape, the support layercomponents may comprise a polygonal shape (e.g., square, rectangle,parallelogram, trapezium, pentagon, hexagon, etc.), an elliptical shape,and/or any other suitable curvilinear shape with sharp or curvedcorners. Moreover, all of the support layer components may comprise thesame shape, or the support layer components may comprise differentshapes.

As illustrated, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and211 d) may be removably attached to each other via connection elements(221 a, 221 c, 221 d). The connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d) arestructured for removably attaching or operatively physically connectingthe support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d), whilestill allowing the customizable folding assembly of the support fillerassembly 200′ (described in detail with respect to FIG. 3A to FIG. 5).Specifically as illustrated by FIG. 2A, as a non-limiting example, afirst support layer component 211 a may be removably attached to a firstend of a second support layer component 211 b via a first connectionelement 221 a. Moreover, a third support layer component 211 c may beremovably attached to a second end of the second support layer component211 b via a second connection element 221 c, while a fourth supportlayer component 211 d may be removably attached to a third end of thesecond support layer component 211 b via a third connection element 221d. Although, a “T” shaped arrangement of the support filler assembly200′ is illustrated herein, it is understood that any suitableattachment may be easily achieved based on the user's requirement. Forinstance, the fourth support layer component 211 d may be removablyattached to the third support layer component 211 c via the thirdconnection element 221 d, e.g., to form a linear shape of the supportfiller assembly 200′. As another instance, another fifth support layercomponent (not illustrated) may be removably attached to a fourth end ofthe second support layer component 211 b, e.g., to form a “+” shape ofthe support filler assembly 200′. Moreover, one or more support layercomponents may be detached, e.g., to form a “L” shape for the supportfiller assembly 200′. In this way, the support layer components may bearranged to form a variety of shapes of the support filler assembly200′, such as “C”, “I”, “Y”, “K”, “U”. “E”, and/or other suitableshapes. In other words, the number and arrangement of the support layercomponents may be easily varied, to form infinitely customizable shapesand properties of the support filler assembly 200′, without having toinnately deconstruct/damage the support layer components.

As illustrated by FIG. 2A, the arrangement of the support fillerassembly 200′ in its disassembled mode exhibits a maximum length “Lsf”and a maximum width “Wsf”. Typically, in some embodiments, the (i)maximum length “Lsf” and/or the (ii) maximum width “Wsf” of the supportfiller assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode, is typically greater thanthe corresponding the (i) maximum length L and/or the (ii) maximum widthW of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110, suchthat the such that the support filler assembly 200′ in its disassembledmode cannot be enclosed fully by the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Here,the (i) maximum length “Lsf” and/or the (ii) maximum width “Wsf” of thesupport filler assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode may be about 1.2to 2, 1.5 to 2, 1.2 to 4, 1.5 to 3, 1.8 to 2.2, 1.5 to 4.5, timesgreater than that of the corresponding the (i) maximum length L and/orthe (ii) maximum width W of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell110 or cover 110. Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 intoits assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembledmode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to orlesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 orcover 110.

As illustrated by FIG. 2B, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b,211 c, and 211 d) may be detached or operatively decoupled ordisconnected from each other via the connection elements (221 a, 221 c,221 d), without having to innately deconstruct/damage the support layercomponents. The connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d) are structuredfor (i) removably attaching or operatively physicallycoupling/connecting the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c,and 211 d), and (ii) detaching or decoupling the support layercomponents (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d). The connection elements maycomprise a suitable coupling mechanism such as snap mechanisms, clips,pins, hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro), adhesives,tension/interference fits, belts, straps, chords, buttons, zippers,ties, an overall cover to hold the pillows, elastics, press fits, hooks,and/or another suitable mechanism (e.g., chosen based on comfortreasons). In this regard, the connection elements may be made from asuitable material or a combination of materials such as plastics,textiles, fibers, metals, composites, foam, wood, paper/boards, and/orthe like.

The connection elements may each comprise coupling portions, e.g.,complementary coupling portions form a coupling pair that can beoperatively coupled for removably attaching or operatively physicallycoupling/connecting the corresponding adjacent support layer components.As discussed above, the first support layer component 211 a may beremovably attached to and detached from the first end of the secondsupport layer component 211 b via the first connection element 221 a.Here, as a non-limiting example, the first connection element 221 a maycomprise a first coupling portion 221 a(i) at the first support layercomponent 211 a, and a second coupling portion 221 a(ii) at the secondsupport layer component 211 b. The first coupling portion 221 a(i) maybe compatible with and/or complementary to the second coupling portion221 a(ii), such that the first coupling portion 221 a(i) may beremovably attached to/operatively coupled with the second couplingportion 221 a(ii) for removably attaching the first support layercomponent 211 a with the second support layer component 211 b.Similarly, the third connection element 221 d may comprise a firstcoupling portion 221 d(i) (similar to the first coupling portion 221a(i)) at the second support layer component 211 b, and a second couplingportion 221 d(ii) (similar to the second coupling portion 221 a(ii)) atthe fourth support layer component 211 d. The first coupling portion 221d(i) may be compatible with and/or complementary to the second couplingportion 221 d(ii), such that the first coupling portion 221 d(i) may beremovably attached to/operatively coupled with the second couplingportion 221 d(ii) for removably attaching the second support layercomponent 211 b with the fourth support layer component 211 d.

For instance, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221 d(i)) may be inthe form of a recess/aperture, which is sized/dimensioned and/orotherwise structured to receive a projection from the correspondingsecond coupling portion (221 a(ii), 221 d(ii)) (e.g., to facilitate asnap-fit). As another example, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221d(i)) may be in the form of a projection, which is sized/dimensionedand/or otherwise structured to be received at an aperture of thecorresponding second coupling portion (221 a(ii), 221 d(ii)). As anotherexample, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221 d(i)) may be in theform of hooks, which is sized/dimensioned and/or otherwise structured tobe received at loops of the corresponding second coupling portion (221a(ii), 221 d(ii)).

As illustrated by FIG. 2A, the support filler assembly 200′ isstructured such that, some or all of the support layer components (211a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d) may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g.,along a corresponding connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d)) forabout 300 to 360 degrees or ±150 to 180 (i.e., 150 to 180 degrees ineither direction) with respect to the adjacent support layer component,for assembling the support filler assembly. For example, the firstsupport layer component 211 a (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded)(e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A1”(e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees,and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along thefirst connection element 221 a) in a direction “A2” (e.g.,counter-clockwise, illustrated in FIG. 3A) opposite direction A1 for 150to 180 degrees, as well. Upon rotation, a surface of the first supportlayer component 211 a is structured to contact and/or at least partiallycover a (previously non-facing or flush) surface of an adjacentconnection element (e.g., the second support layer component 211 b).

Similarly, the third support layer component 211 c (i) can be rotated orpivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) ina direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/restingposition for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted(or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in adirection “C2” (e.g., clockwise, illustrated in FIG. 3A) oppositedirection C1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Upon rotation, a surfaceof the third support layer component 211 c is structured to contactand/or at least partially cover a (previously non-facing or flush)surface of an adjacent connection element (e.g., the second supportlayer component 211 b). Moreover, the fourth support layer component 211d (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the thirdconnection element 221 d) in a direction “D1” (e.g., clockwise) from itsbase/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can berotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element221 d) in a direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise, illustrated in FIG.4A) opposite direction D1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Uponrotation, a surface of the fourth support layer component 211 d isstructured to contact and/or at least partially cover a (previouslynon-facing or flush) surface of an adjacent connection element (e.g.,the second support layer component 211 b).

Although, the examples have been described with respect to “clockwise”or “counter-clockwise” directions for illustrative purposes, it isunderstood that the direction is dependent on the observer. Moreover,the 150 to 180 degree range on rotation or movement of the support layercomponent(s) is described with respect to a midway or medianresting/base position of the support layer component(s) between the twoextreme opposite positions possible, for illustrative purposes only. Itis understood that in the instances where the base/resting position doesnot lie in a midway or median between the extreme positions, therotational range in the first direction and the opposite seconddirection may be greater than or lesser than 150 to 180 degrees, suchthat the cumulative rotational range in the first direction and theopposite second direction would fall between 300 to 360 degrees.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30Cdepicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 ofFIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.Specifically, FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views30A-30C along a section M-M of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG.2A. Moreover, FIG. 3A depicts the support filler assembly 200′ in itsresting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG. 2A, while FIGS. 3Band 3C illustrate the assembly folding process for assembling thesupport filler assembly 200′.

As illustrated by FIG. 3A, the support filler assembly 200′ isstructured such that the first support layer component 211 a (i) can berotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element221 a) in a direction “A1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/restingposition for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted(or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in adirection “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction A1 for 150to 180 degrees, as well. Moreover, the third support layer component 211c (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the secondconnection element 221 c) in a direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise)from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) canbe rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connectionelement 221 c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) opposite directionC1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.

FIG. 3B illustrates the third support layer component 211 c rotated orpivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221 c, in thedirection “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting positionfor 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 11 c of the third supportlayer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/coversa previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 11 b (asillustrated in the position depicted by FIG. 3A) of the second supportlayer component 211 b. Next, FIG. 3C illustrates the first support layercomponent 211 a rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the firstconnection element 221 a) in the direction “A2” (e.g.,counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21 a ofthe first support layer component 211 a contacts and/or at leastpartially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush ornon-overlapping surface 21 b (as illustrated in the position depicted byFIGS. 3A and 3B) of the second support layer component 211 b. Here, thesurfaces 11 a of the first support layer component 211 a and surface 21c of the third support layer component 211 c form the outer surfaces,while the other surfaces (21 a, 11 b, 21 b, and 11 c) are folded ininternally, as illustrated by FIG. 3C. The arrangement may also beflipped by the user. The assembly process may end at the positionillustrated in FIG. 3C, or the assembly process may continue with therotation/folding of other support layer component(s). Upon convertingthe support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the supportfiller assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a maximum lengthand maximum width that is equal to or lesser than that of the pillowapparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Once the assemblyfolding process in completed, the assembled support filler assembly 200may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of acertain arrangement/configuration.

FIGS. 3B and 3C depict one possible arrangement, for illustrativepurposes. As an example of another arrangement not illustrated herein,as a first step, the third support layer component 211 c may be rotatedor pivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221 c, inthe direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/restingposition of FIG. 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 11 c ofthe third support layer component 211 c contacts and/or at leastpartially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush ornon-overlapping surface 11 b of the second support layer component 211b. Next, the first support layer component 211 a may be rotated orpivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) ina direction “A1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position ofFIG. 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 11 a of the firstsupport layer component 211 a contacts and/or at least partiallyoverlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlappingsurface 21 c of the third support layer component 211 c. In thisarrangement, the surfaces 21 a of the first support layer component 211a and surface 21 b of the second support layer component 211 b form theouter surfaces, while the other surfaces (11 a, 11 b, 11 c, and 21 c)are folded in internally.

As yet another example of another arrangement not illustrated herein, asa first step, the first support layer component 211 a may be rotated orpivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) ina direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, suchthat, a surface 21 a of the first support layer component 211 a contactsand/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing orflush or non-overlapping surface 21 b of the second support layercomponent 211 b. Next, the third support layer component 211 c may berotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connectionelement 221 c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180degrees, such that a surface 21 c of the third support layer component211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previouslynon-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 11 a of the first supportlayer component 211 a. In this arrangement, the surfaces 11 b of thesecond support layer component 211 b and surface 11 c of the thirdsupport layer component 211 c form the outer surfaces, while the othersurfaces (11 a, 21 a, 21 b, and 21 c) are folded in internally.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40Bdepicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 ofFIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.Specifically, FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views40A-40B along a section N-N of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG.2A. Moreover, FIG. 4A depicts the support filler assembly 200′ in itsresting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG. 2A, while FIG. 4Billustrates the assembly folding process for assembling the supportfiller assembly 200′.

As illustrated by FIG. 4A, the support filler assembly 200′ isstructured such that the fourth support layer component 211 d (i) can berotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element221 c) in a direction “D1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/restingposition for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted(or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 c) in adirection “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction D1 for 150to 180 degrees, as well. FIG. 4B illustrates the fourth support layercomponent 211 d rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the thirdconnection element 221 c) in the direction “D2” (e.g.,counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21 d ofthe fourth support layer component 211 d contacts and/or at leastpartially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush ornon-overlapping surface 21 b (as illustrated in the position depicted byFIG. 4A) of the second support layer component 211 b. Here, the surfaces11 d of the fourth support layer component 211 d and surface 11 b of thesecond support layer component 211 b form the outer surfaces, while theother surfaces (21 b and 21 d) are folded in internally, as illustratedby FIG. 4B. The arrangement may also be flipped by the user. Theassembly process may end at the position illustrated in FIG. 4B, or theassembly process may continue with the rotation/folding of other supportlayer component(s). It is noted that the assembly folding process ofFIG. 4B may be combined with any of the steps previously with respect toFIGS. 3A-3C. Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into itsassembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled modemay comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to orlesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 orcover 110. Once the assembly folding process in completed, the assembledsupport filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to formthe pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration.

As advantages of the present invention, support filler assembly 200 isinfinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality ofsupport layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, 211 n) of varioussoftness/hardness for assembly within the pillow apparatus 100, withouthaving to replace the entire pillow apparatus by merely performing theassembly folding process (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3A to5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) (e.g., as described with respect toFIG. 2B) without having to structurally damage the pillow apparatus 100.The user may arrange/fold/rotate all or some of the plurality of supportlayer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), in any suitableorder/arrangement, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200, andinsert the assembled support filler assembly 200 into a cover 110 toform the pillow apparatus 100 of a first arrangement/configuration.Moreover, the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into asecond configuration. For instance, the user may withdraw the supportfiller assembly 200 assembled in the first arrangement/configurationfrom the cover 110, and then easily disassemble it into the base/restingposition (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user may then (i) detachone or more support layer components, (ii) attach one or more newsupport layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the support layercomponents in another sequence, to assemble/form the support fillerassembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. Thesupport filler assembly 200 assembled in a secondarrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 toform the pillow apparatus 100 of a second arrangement/configuration.

FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting theassembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A into anew configuration/arrangement, in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention. Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectionalviews along section M-M and section N-N of the support filler assembly200 of FIG. 2A. Moreover, the “origin” depicts the support fillerassembly 200′ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG.2A, while steps 1 to n−1 illustrate the assembly folding process forassembling the support filler assembly 200′. In some embodiments, for asupport filler assembly 200′ having “n” number of support layercomponents, the assembly folding process may involve “n−1” steps.

At step 1, FIG. 5 illustrates the first support layer component 211 abeing rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connectionelement 221 a) in a direction “A1” from its base/resting position for150 to 180 degrees, such that the first support layer component 211 acontacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previouslynon-facing or flush or non-overlapping second support layer component211 b.

Next, at step 2, FIG. 5 illustrates the n^(th) support layer component211 n (e.g., fourth support layer component 211 d) rotated or pivoted(or folded) in the direction “N2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to180 degrees, such that the n^(th) support layer component 211 n (e.g.,fourth support layer component 211 d) contacts and/or at least partiallyoverlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlappingsecond support layer component 211 b.

Finally, at step n−1, FIG. 5 illustrates the third support layercomponent 211 c rotated or pivoted (or folded) in a direction “C2”(e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the third supportlayer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/coversa previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping n^(th) support layercomponent 211 n (e.g., fourth support layer component 211 d), therebyforming the assembled support filler assembly 200. The arrangement mayalso be flipped by the user. Upon converting the support filler assembly200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in itsassembled mode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that isequal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outershell 110 or cover 110. Once the assembly folding process in completed,the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certainarrangement/configuration. Moreover, the steps may be performed in thereverse order to place support filler assembly 200 in its disassembledmode.

As advantages of the present invention, support filler assembly 200 isinfinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality ofsupport layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of varioussoftness/hardness for assembly within the pillow apparatus 100, withouthaving to replace the entire pillow apparatus by merely performing theassembly folding process (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3A to5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) (e.g., as described with respect toFIG. 2B) without having to structurally damage the pillow apparatus 100.The user may arrange/fold/rotate all or some of the plurality of supportlayer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), in any suitableorder/arrangement, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200, andinsert the assembled support filler assembly 200 into a cover 110 toform the pillow apparatus 100 of a first arrangement/configuration.Moreover, the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into asecond configuration. For instance, the user may withdraw the supportfiller assembly 200 assembled in the first arrangement/configurationfrom the cover 110, and then easily disassemble it into the base/restingposition (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user may then (i) detachone or more support layer components, (ii) attach one or more newsupport layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the support layercomponents in another sequence, to assemble/form the support fillerassembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. Thesupport filler assembly 200 assembled in a secondarrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 toform the pillow apparatus 100 of a second arrangement/configuration.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cut-away sectional view 60 of the supportfiller assembly 200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. Specifically, the arrangement of supportfiller assembly 200 of FIG. 6 is substantially similar to that describedpreviously with respect to FIGS. 2A to 5. As illustrated, each of thesupport layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may comprise awidth (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) measured parallelly to the widthfunction W of the pillow apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the widths(W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantially equal to the width function W ofthe pillow apparatus 100, while in other embodiments, the widths (W1 a,W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . ., 211 n) may be lesser than the width function W of the pillow apparatus100. Thereby, upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into itsassembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled modemay comprise a reduced width from the maximum width (“Wsf”, depicted inFIG. 2A) of the disassembled mode. Moreover, the maximum width of thesupport filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode is equal to or lesserthan that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover110. Moreover, the widths (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the supportlayer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantiallyequal to each other, or they may vary from each other. The widths (W1 a,W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . ., 211 n) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to theirrespective thickness and/or length.

Each of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) maycomprise a thickness (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n), respectively, measuredparallelly to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100, asillustrated by FIG. 6. As illustrated, each of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . ,211 n) may be lesser that that of the thickness function T of the pillowapparatus 100. In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 6, a sum of thethicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components(211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), i.e., (T1 a+T1 b+, . . . , +T1 n)substantially equals the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus100. In other words, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, thesupport layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) are arranged suchthat the sum of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of some orall of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) issubstantially equal to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus100. Moreover, each of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of thesupport layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may vary fromeach other, or they may be substantially equal. The thicknesses (T1 a,T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . ., 211 n) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to theirrespective width and/or length.

Moreover, each of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . ,211 n) may comprise a length measured parallelly to the length functionL of the pillow apparatus 100, not illustrated in this cross-sectionalview of FIG. 6. Although not illustrated herein, upon converting thesupport filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support fillerassembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a reduced length fromthe maximum width (“Lsf”, depicted in FIG. 2A) of the disassembled mode.Moreover, the maximum length of the support filler assembly 200 in itsassembled mode is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110.

As illustrated by FIG. 6, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, .. . , 211 n) may be positioned adjacent to each other such that adjacentsurfaces are in contact. Here, adjacent surfaces of the support layercomponents (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantially in contactwith each other, or there may be voids, gaps, or spaces therebetween(e.g., to allow for flexibility). However, in some embodiments, asurface of a support layer component (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) maycomprise at least one support recess (not illustrated) structured for atleast partially (or entirely) receiving and/or securing the acorresponding complementary protrusion (not illustrated) provided on anadjacent surface of an adjacent support layer component, for easilysecuring the pair of support layer components, e.g., via a snap fit.

Each of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . .. , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from a varietyof materials based on their individual and also cumulative supportcharacteristics, such as firmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency,and comfort. The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211b, . . . , 211 n) may be made from one or more materials, such as a foammaterial, orthopedic foam, orthopedic memory foam, a loose material suchas fiber or poly beads, polyfiber, reticulated foam, hollowpetrochemical beads, expanded polystyrene beads or any other materialsthat collectively allow the support filler assembly 200 to have desiredthe resilient, conforming and supporting properties. That said, theplurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n)may be constructed using a variety of materials, including but notlimited to, metals, alloys, composites, plastics, natural materials(e.g., wood), other synthetic materials, synthetic and natural fabrics,foams and other materials and/or natural/synthetic blends. In someembodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b,. . . , 211 n) may be made of materials that have a predetermined highpermeability and predetermined high wickability. As used herein,wickability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200and the filter barrier means the ability of the filler material of thesupport filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier to disperse moistureand allow it to pass through to the surface of the fabric, so thatevaporation can take place. In some embodiments the plurality of supportlayer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) comprise performancematerials/fabrics to provide functional qualities like moisturemanagement, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermoregulation and wind andwater resistance.

The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211n) of the support filler assembly 200, may have different durometers.The durometer or hardness used herein may refer to the hardnessdescribed by procedure ASTM 2240 (American Society of Testing andMaterials) using the Shore A scale. The durometer or durometers may varyfrom resilient to compressible. In some embodiments, plurality ofsupport layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of thesupport filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having differentdurometers, plastics having different durometers, etc. For example, thesupport layer component 211 a may be made from a foam having a lowerdurometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211 b may be madefrom a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layercomponent 211 n may be made from a foam having a higherdurometer/hardness. In other words, for example, the support layercomponent 211 a may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness(e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesserdurometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component211 b (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the supportlayer component 211 b may exceed the hardness of the support layercomponent 211 a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 b has1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the supportlayer component 211 a. Continuing with the example, the support layercomponent 211 b may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness(e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesserdurometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component211 n (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the supportlayer component 211 n may exceed the hardness of the support layercomponent 211 b, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 n has1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the supportlayer component 211 b. As a non-limiting example, the support layercomponent 211 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), thesupport layer component 211 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., anorthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 211 n may be athick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 70A-70C ofarrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention. FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate the pillow apparatus 100 having thesupport filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode comprising specificarrangements of plurality of support layer components 212 (212 a, 212 b,212 c), similar to the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a,211 b, . . . , 211 n), and plurality of support layer components 211(211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), with “n” being 3, described previously.FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations ofthe pillow apparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layercomponents 212 (212 a, 212 b, 212 c), in order to achieve differentsupport characteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using theassembly process steps described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5previously.

As a non-limiting example, the support layer component 212 a may be madefrom a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layercomponent 212 b may be made from a foam having mediumdurometer/hardness, and the support layer component 212 c may be madefrom a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. As another non-limitingexample, the support layer component 212 a may be a thin layer (e.g., athin foam layer), the support layer component 212 b may be an orthopediclayer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component212 c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIG. 7A illustrates a schematic representation 70A of a configuration ofthe pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve soft neck support. Here,the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may beplaced proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate auser's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 b (e.g.,an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112and away from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed in between the supportlayer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layercomponent 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer).

FIG. 7B illustrates a schematic representation 70B of a configuration ofthe pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve medium neck support. Here,the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may beplaced proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate auser's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 c (e.g.,a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 andaway from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 212 b(e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed in between the supportlayer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layercomponent 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIG. 7C illustrates a schematic representation 70C of a configuration ofthe pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve firm neck support. Here,support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may beplaced proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate auser's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 c (e.g.,a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 andaway from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 212 a(e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed in between the support layercomponent 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) and the support layercomponent 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 80A-80D ofarrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention. FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate the pillow apparatus 100 having aplurality of support layer components 213 (213 a, 213 b, 213 c), similarto the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . ,211 n), and plurality of support layer components 212 (212 a, 212 b, . .. , 212 n), with “n” being 3, described previously. FIGS. 8A-8Dillustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations of the pillowapparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layer components 213(213 a, 213 b, 213 c), in order to achieve a comfort/weightcharacteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using the assemblyprocess steps described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5 previously. As anon-limiting example, the support layer component 213 a may be made froma foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layercomponent 213 b may be made from a foam having mediumdurometer/hardness, and the support layer component 213 c may be madefrom a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. As another non-limitingexample, the support layer component 213 a may be a thin layer (e.g., athin foam layer), the support layer component 213 b may be an orthopediclayer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component213 c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).

FIG. 8A illustrates a schematic representation 80A of a configuration ofthe pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thick configuration witha higher weight. Here, the support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thinfoam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to bepositioned proximate a user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while thesupport layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placedproximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/orbody. The support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)may be placed in between the support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thinfoam layer) and the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foamlayer). This configuration may also be reversed such that the supportlayer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximatethe user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away from the user's neckand/or head.

FIGS. 8B and 8C illustrate schematic representations 80B and 80C havingmedium thickness configurations of the pillow apparatus 100, havingmedium weights. FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic representation 80B of aconfiguration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve athin-medium thickness/weight configuration. Here, the support layercomponent 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) is removed. The support layercomponent 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed proximate thefirst surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head,while the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user'sneck and/or body. This configuration may also be reversed such that thesupport layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may beplaced proximate the user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while supportlayer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away fromthe user's neck and/or head.

Moreover, FIG. 8C illustrates a schematic representation 80C of aconfiguration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve athick-medium thickness/weight configuration. Here, the support layercomponent 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) is removed. The support layercomponent 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate thefirst surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head,while the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user'sneck and/or body. This configuration may also be reversed such that thesupport layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may beplaced proximate the user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while supportlayer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed away fromthe user's neck and/or head.

FIG. 8D illustrates a schematic representation 80D of a configuration ofthe pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve thin thickness/weightconfiguration. Here, only the support layer component 213 b (e.g., anorthopedic foam layer) is provided.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates thepillow apparatus of FIG. 1 with the outer shell 110 or cover 110enclosing the assembled support filler assembly 200, and the outer shell110 or cover 110 an aperture or opening 118 (illustrated in an openposition). Although, FIG. 9 illustrates the aperture or opening 118being provided on lateral side 116, it is understood that the aperturemay be provided on any suitable side or surface. Moreover, the user mayeasily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into a second configuration. Forinstance, the user may withdraw the support filler assembly 200assembled in the first arrangement/configuration from the cover 110 viathe aperture or opening 118, and then easily disassemble it into thebase/resting position (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user maythen (i) detach one or more support layer components, (ii) attach one ormore new support layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the supportlayer components in another sequence, to assemble/form the supportfiller assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. Thesupport filler assembly 200 assembled in a secondarrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 viathe aperture or opening 118 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a secondarrangement/configuration.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theseinventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Inaddition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular formherein are meant to also include the plural form and/or vice versa. Asused herein, “at least one” shall mean “one or more” and these phrasesare intended to be interchangeable. Accordingly, the terms “a” and/or“an” shall mean “at least one” or “one or more,” even though the phrase“one or more” or “at least one” is also used herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A customizable pillow apparatus, comprising: anouter shell; a support filler assembly comprising a plurality of supportlayer components, wherein the support filler assembly is structured tobe transformed from a disassembled mode to an assembled mode by:rotating a first support layer of the plurality of support layers in afirst direction such that the rotated first support layer at leastpartially overlaps a second support layer to form a first configuration,wherein the first support layer and the second support layer arenon-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.2. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in thecustomizable pillow apparatus is configured to be modified into a secondconfiguration from the first configuration.
 3. A customizable pillowapparatus according to claim 2, wherein modifying the customizablepillow apparatus into the second configuration comprises, rearranging anorder of the plurality of support layer components.
 4. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 2, wherein modifying thecustomizable pillow apparatus into the second configuration comprises,adding a new support layer to the plurality of support layer components.5. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 2, whereinmodifying the customizable pillow apparatus into the secondconfiguration comprises, removing a new support layer from the pluralityof support layer components.
 6. A customizable pillow apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured tobe rotated in a range of about 300 to 360 degrees.
 7. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support layeris structured to be rotated in a range of about 150 to 180 degrees inthe first direction.
 8. A customizable pillow apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated ina second direction opposite to the first direction.
 9. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second support layeris structured to be rotated in a range of about 150 to 180 degrees inthe second direction.
 10. A customizable pillow apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated ina second direction opposite to the first direction.
 11. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the supportfiller assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode furthercomprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of supportlayers in a second direction such that the rotated third support layerat least partially overlaps the second support layer, wherein the secondsupport layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in thedisassembled mode of the support filler assembly.
 12. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the supportfiller assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode furthercomprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of supportlayers in a second direction such that the rotated third support layerat least partially overlaps the first support layer, wherein the firstsupport layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in thedisassembled mode of the support filler assembly.
 13. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the supportfiller assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode furthercomprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of supportlayers in the first direction such that the rotated third support layerat least partially overlaps the second support layer, wherein the secondsupport layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in thedisassembled mode of the support filler assembly.
 14. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the supportfiller assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode furthercomprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of supportlayers in the first direction such that the rotated third support layerat least partially overlaps the first support layer, wherein the firstsupport layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in thedisassembled mode of the support filler assembly.
 15. A customizablepillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support fillerassembly in the disassembled mode comprises a maximum length greaterthan a maximum length of the outer shell such that the outer shell isnot structured to enclose the support filler assembly in thedisassembled mode.
 16. A customizable pillow apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the support filler assembly in the disassembled modecomprises a maximum width greater than a maximum width of the outershell such that the outer shell is not structured to enclose the supportfiller assembly in the disassembled mode.
 17. A customizable pillowapparatus, comprising: a support filler assembly comprising a pluralityof support layer components, wherein the support filler assembly isstructured to be transformed from a disassembled mode to an assembledmode by: rotating a first support layer of the plurality of supportlayers in a first direction such that the rotated first support layer atleast partially overlaps a second support layer to form a firstconfiguration, wherein the first support layer and the second supportlayer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support fillerassembly.